Typically a candida infection will occur in warm, moist areas of the body such as the vagina and underarms. Most of the time the skin will effectively block yeast, although sometimes if there is any breakdown or cuts in the skin then the organism may be able to penetrate the skin. For babies the area that is most affect by yeast infection on skin is typically the mouth and diaper areas.
For adults an oral yeast infection will become more likely as their age increases. It is also possible to have yeast infections around dentures, under the breast and lower abdomen, in the nail beds of the fingers and toes, as well as beneath skin folds. Often a yeast infection on skin is superficial and can be easily cleared up with treatment.
For women the second most common cause of vaginal burning, itching and discharge is a yeast infection. Most women have yeast in the vagina area and if a change in the vagina environment occurs then an overgrowth of yeast can happen. The most common causes of yeast overgrowth includes antibiotic and steroid use. A developing yeast infection can also be caused by pregnancy, menstruation, sperm, diabetes and birth control pills. After menopause yeast infections become more common.
Symptoms
Depending on the location of a candida infection there will be varying symptoms. A yeast infection of skin will typically occur when there is a breakdown of the outer layers of skin which promotes the yeast’s overgrowth. It will then spread when the environment is warm and moist, such as places of skin folds and diaper areas. The yeast infection on skin will appear as a red flat rash with sharp scalloped edges. A similar-appearing rash may appear in smaller patches called satellite lesions or satellite pustules that are found near the main rash. The yeast infection on skin will cause the rashes to become itchy and possibly painful. In the areas of skin folds the yeast infection on skin is known as Intertrigo and will appear as softened red skin. If the yeast infection on skin gets into the nail beds then it will cause swelling.
Treatment
When it comes to yeast infection on skin the treatment is typically to use over the counter nystatin powders such as Mycostatin, Nilstat, Nystat-Rx, Nystex, O-V and Staticin. Other treatment options include antifungal creams and lotions. If your rash worsens at any time or if you develop lesions then you should seek medical attention. In addition, you should notify you doctor if the rash doesn’t clear up with treatment in one to two weeks. Signs of more serious illness include fever, chills, nausea, vomiting or the spreading of the rash to other areas of the body.
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